BRUXELLES, 3 April 2009 (ITUC OnLine): A call for a ‘Global New Deal’ was launched Friday in Brussels by a unique coalition of progressive politicians, trade unions and NGOs from over forty countries. Affiliates International Trade Union Confederation, ITUC, from every region took part in the event.
The launch of the call took place at the Global Progressive Forum, a huge gathering of over 2.000 politicians, trades unionists, NGOs, representatives of progressive international organizations and grassroots activists in the European Parliament, and timed to coincide with the end of the G20.
The declaration states “Together it is possible to change the face of globalization”
“Over recent decades, progressive forces have been warning about the accumulation of risks and injustices for people and the planet. Now, the fundamental and systemic failures of the current economic system are undeniable: the time has come to restate our values, our vision and our proposals for a new direction, transforming our societies, improving the lives of our and future generations.”
“Millions live in poverty without access to decent work, housing or basic medical care while others indulge shocking greed.”
The Global Progressive Forum calls for a Global New Deal including
The biggest coordinated fiscal stimulus in modern history to stop unemployment and poverty
Financial market regulation, including an end to tax avoidance by the elite by abolishing tax havens
Supporting the transition to a renewable and energy efficient economy
Promoting fair trade
Pushing decent work up the global agenda
A more equitable sharing of revenue between capital and labour
Ensuring women’s rights
Massive new resources to secure development in the world’s poorest countries
Each person taking part in the launch of the call for a ‘Global New Deal’ signed a giant globe to show their support, and explained to the gathered audience why they supported the declaration. Signatories included Poul Nyrup Rasmussen.
For more information, see: www.globalprogressiveforum.org
Kilde: ITUC Online
